Patient story library

The poem "Begum Syndrome" reflects on the ethical question of whether it is appropriate to rely on family members as interpreters in a clinical setting.

A university badminton player spent four years struggling with severe fatigue and pain while being told she was simply overtraining. A diagnosis of lupus finally gave her answers.

A former medical student experienced severe headaches, chest pressure, and vision problems but was repeatedly told it was stress. A later diagnosis revealed dangerously high blood pressure.

A doctor spent years being told her severe menstrual pain and exhaustion were "normal". An emergency later revealed a ruptured endometriotic cyst.

A fine art restorer spent years seeking answers for severe neck and shoulder pain that was dismissed as long working hours. Further investigation revealed an underlying connective tissue disorder.

After developing severe back pain and numbness, an architect was initially told she had a simple slipped disc. An emergency MRI later revealed a major spinal nerve compression requiring urgent surgery.